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Mary Kay

9:30 AM

When Mary Kay sent me a box full of products to try I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I've used a couple of products from the brand and have a few friends who sell it, but this was a great opportunity to try a wide range of products from them. I created the look below exclusively using Mary Kay products, and incorporated a few of the products into my routine.

After applying, wearing, and removing the products here's what I thought...

Blush Brush: While I prefer a larger blush brush, this domed brush applied color nicely. Although the product is listed as using natural bristles, the thicker, coarse bristles of this brush feel more like synthetic. Would definitely use this for travel, or while washing my preferred brushes, but would not likely purchase for myself. ($14)

Cream Eye Color/Concealer Brush: This short, synthetic bristle brush is great for applying eye shadow base or concealer. However, I prefer to apply cream eye color or concealer with my fingers for more control and precise blending. ($10)

Expandable Gel Liner Brush: This brush is included with each pot of Mary Kay Gel Eye Liner. While convenient, I found it a little too short to execute the control necescary for a precise line and the brush a little too round for thin liner application. I much prefer the 266 brush from MAC Cosmetics for gel liners.

Gel Eye Liner: I am a huge fan of gel liners and was eager to see how this product would compare to my usual MAC Fluidline. The first time I used this product, I ended up with raccoon eyes, and liner smudged all over. The brush applies a thick line and it was extremely humid out, causing the product to slide around a bit. For that reason, I wouldn't recommend this product for hot days, or to those with very oily skin. The second time I used it (on a much cooler day) it stayed in place pretty well, with minimal smudging but I much prefer MAC Fluidline ($16) to this product. ($18)

Cream Eye Color in Apricot Twist: This golden shimmer shadow was my favorite product of the bunch. It delivered buildable, long wearing color and was very easy to apply. Sweep on a single layer, for a sheer wash of gold, or layer the quick drying formula to create intense, shimmering, color. It's the perfect shade to use as an everyday highlighter on the brow bone, as well. ($14)

Bronzing Powder in Light/Medium: This universally flattering shade of bronzer is great for contouring or providing a sun-kissed wash of color to the face. I don't use bronzer too often, typically just for photos and event makeup, but it's nice to have on hand. I did notice that after talking on the phone there was more blush/bronzer on my phone than on my face, seems to transfer easily.Mineral Cheek Color in Shy Blush: I absolutely loved this color, it's a shade that falls just between my two favorite blushes, NARS Orgasm and Deep Throat. As mentioned above it didn't wear all that well, but I did love it for evening makeup that doesn't have to wear all day. ($12)Translucent Loose Powder: The dial on top keeps this ultra-fine finishing powder from dispensing too much product (a major beef with my MAC Prep + Prime) making it perfect for travel or keeping in your gym or handbag. Eliminates excess shine and provides a sheer finish, just don't use too much product and blend well to prevent from looking ghostly or pale. NouriShine Plus Lip Gloss in Mango Tango: No major complaints here-- sheer color, typical wear time, and a great selection of shades. Not too sticky, and slightly moisturizing. I've used Mary Kay gloss before, but it's nothing to write home about.Lash Love Mascara: I'm super picky when it comes to mascara and was totally prepared to hate this product. While it doesn't separate lashes as it claims, it does give a nice "baby-doll" lash effect that's different than my other mascaras. Will definitely be using this one on occasion!Overall I wasn't impressed with these products but the mascara, finishing powder, blush, and cream eyeshadow are all keepers. The eye shadow was definitely the star of the bunch. Do you use Mary Kay products? Which are your favorites?

I was provided complimentary products from Mary Kay and Influenster for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own.